radioactive
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I just thought I'd share about my recent experience in upgrading my amp. I had a Boulder 1060 and upgraded to the 2060. On the surface it might seem that all I'd be getting was a lot more headroom, increased s/n ratio and of course power, but the result was much more. I had an electrician run a dedicated 240V line for the 2060 as Rich Maez at Boulder recommended. While I was skeptical, it's made a word of difference (the 2060 on 240V vs the 1060 on 120V). The background is very "black" and silent, and I never get the sense the 2060 is needing for power from the outlet, and I don't even see the need for power conditioning on the amp side anymore. I was also a bit concerned about the 2060's Class A design and thought it would draw a lot from the line at low volume and end up heating up the room. Nothing could be further from the truth though. The way Rich explained it to me is there is an analog mechanism in place that detects the level required of the amp and dynamically adjusts the gain. This mechanism keeps the gain at the level it's at for about 30 seconds (more or less, I don't remember the exact number of seconds, but it's around there), and if there's a change it adjusts accordingly so as to not ramp down the amp during quiet passages in music. This keeps the amp very cool and prevents massive power draw at low/average listening levels.
When I first listened, I heard all the low-end that everyone had been talking about the Alexia's produce. This was at lower listening levels so I was quite surprised; I didn't think the difference would be that noticeable at lower levels. The low-end is incredible. Very tight, controlled and articulate. I can also attest that while the 1060 and 2060 look alike, their sound is only somewhat similar. Both are extremely clear and honest to the original source, but the 2060 is significantly better.
Another thing I noticed was an almost tube-like sound to the 2060's output when listening to Lucinda Williams' latest album, "Down Where the Spirit Meets the Bone". Vocals were very warm and enjoyable. It reminded me of listening to the ARC Ref 250's, only the bass was significantly faster and much more controlled. Dynamics were improved and I even noticed improved imaging and a wider soundstage.
I'm very pleased with my upgrade and for anyone on the fence considering upgrading I highly recommend it. The only downside is the logistics. Getting a 240V line run adds to the cost, and moving around a 240LB amp is something you'll want a few people with strong backs to do for you. Once it's in place you won't be moving it around much.
ps. Mike, how about a Boulder section in the Manufacturer Forums section?
Bryan
When I first listened, I heard all the low-end that everyone had been talking about the Alexia's produce. This was at lower listening levels so I was quite surprised; I didn't think the difference would be that noticeable at lower levels. The low-end is incredible. Very tight, controlled and articulate. I can also attest that while the 1060 and 2060 look alike, their sound is only somewhat similar. Both are extremely clear and honest to the original source, but the 2060 is significantly better.
Another thing I noticed was an almost tube-like sound to the 2060's output when listening to Lucinda Williams' latest album, "Down Where the Spirit Meets the Bone". Vocals were very warm and enjoyable. It reminded me of listening to the ARC Ref 250's, only the bass was significantly faster and much more controlled. Dynamics were improved and I even noticed improved imaging and a wider soundstage.
I'm very pleased with my upgrade and for anyone on the fence considering upgrading I highly recommend it. The only downside is the logistics. Getting a 240V line run adds to the cost, and moving around a 240LB amp is something you'll want a few people with strong backs to do for you. Once it's in place you won't be moving it around much.
ps. Mike, how about a Boulder section in the Manufacturer Forums section?
Bryan
